Ovid Napa Valley 2016

Ovid’s 2016 Napa Valley flagship is a deeply expressive, small-production red from the prized slopes of Pritchard Hill, crafted under winemaker Austin Peterson. Built on Cabernet Sauvignon with Cabernet Franc and supporting Bordeaux varieties, it combines Napa power with polished, Bordeaux-inspired finesse. Released from one of Napa’s most sought-after estates, it represents the kind of wine collectors and serious enthusiasts wait years to access.

Tasting Notes
In the glass, it shows a near-inky, dark garnet color that immediately signals concentration. The nose is layered and arresting, unfolding with red and black cherry, blackcurrant, plum, cinnamon, violet, pepper, sage, mocha, leather, and a touch of menthol. The palate is full-bodied and muscular, yet remarkably sleek and elegant. Ripe fruit, fine-grained tannins, and vibrant freshness create a seamless structure, leading to a long, spicy, energetic finish. While already impressive, this wine has excellent aging potential and should develop beautifully over many years.

Production
Fruit comes from Ovid’s own vineyards on Pritchard Hill in Napa Valley, a high-elevation site known for its rocky soils, excellent drainage, and intense sun exposure. The estate farms according to leading organic principles and operates with solar energy, reflecting a strong commitment to sustainability. After pressing and fermentation, the wine matures for 22 months in French oak, with 50% new barrels, adding depth, spice, and refinement without overwhelming the fruit.

Food & Serving
This is a wine for rich, flavorful dishes such as grilled ribeye, slow-braised short ribs, venison, lamb rack, or truffle-inflected mushroom dishes. It also pairs beautifully with aged hard cheeses. Serve at around 16–18°C, and decant for 1–2 hours if drinking young to allow the aromatic complexity and structure to fully open up.

Producer
Founded in 2000 by Mark Nelson and Dana Johnson, Ovid is one of Napa Valley’s most distinctive boutique estates, perched high on Pritchard Hill near Oakville. The winery has earned a reputation for tiny quantities, experimental cuvées, and a highly individual approach to winemaking, with Austin Peterson at the helm since 2010. Known for its architectural setting, solar-powered operations, and cult-status mailing list, Ovid has become one of the region’s most admired and elusive producers.

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